Robotics and automation startup Difacto has successfully raised INR 40 Cr (approximately $4.8 Mn) in its maiden financing round, with the funds coming from mid-market private equity firm Stakeboat Capital.
Expansion Plans
Difacto’s founder and chief executive, Ajay Gopalswamy, disclosed that the newly acquired funds would be utilized to expand the company’s reach across various sectors such as automotive, home appliances, and electronics. This expansion aligns with the increasing investment and volume in the manufacturing industry.
Company Background
Founded in 2007, Difacto provides a range of robotic solutions tailored to the Indian manufacturing sector. The company’s operations are categorized into four primary segments:
- Welding systems
- Material handling systems
- Foundry and machine tending systems
- Fluid dispensing systems
Clientele and Projects
Difacto boasts an impressive client list, including industry giants such as Mahindra Group, Tata Group, Maruti Suzuki, and Toyota India. Over the past 14 years, the company has successfully delivered over 1,000 projects to approximately 300 customers in more than 15 countries, supported by a robust team of over 200 engineers.
Financial Performance and Future Outlook
For the financial year 2023-24 (FY24), Difacto reported sales of INR 175 Cr. Looking ahead, the company anticipates this figure will rise to INR 225 Cr in FY25, reflecting its growth trajectory and the successful deployment of the new funds.
Industry Context
Difacto’s funding round occurs amid increasing interest in the robotics and automation sector. Recently, Japanese conglomerate SoftBank announced its intentions to invest in Indian data centers and industrial robotics companies, emphasizing the infrastructure layer of artificial intelligence.
In related news within the warehouse automation market, Bengaluru-based warehouse robotics startup Accio Robotics raised $1.8 Mn (around INR 15 Cr) in a Pre-Series A funding round. This round was co-led by BIG Capital, Unisync Angels, and Daniel Fitzgerald, highlighting the burgeoning interest and investment in robotics and automation solutions.
